C1verb2K

Sigh

UK /["/saɪ/","/saɪz/","/saɪd/","/ˈsaɪɪŋ/"]/US /["/saɪ/","/saɪz/","/saɪd/","/ˈsaɪɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to take and then let out a long deep breath that can be heard, to show that you are disappointed, sad, tired, etc.

In simple words: To breathe out deeply as a way to show feelings like sadness or relief.

Examples

  • He **sighed deeply** at the thought.
  • She **sighed with relief** that it was all over.
  • He sighed wearily as he looked at the pile of work.
  • She looked at her son and sighed happily.
  • She sighed heavily and sat down.
  • The girl watching him sighed dreamily.
  • He sighed in exasperation.
  • ‘Oh well, better luck next time,’ she sighed.
  • the sighing of the wind through the trees
  • branches sighing in the wind

Usage notes

Use 'sigh' when expressing emotions like frustration, relief, or longing. It's suitable in both casual and serious contexts but may feel out of place in very formal writing.

Grammar pattern

sigh + object (optional)

Memory hint

Think of a 'sigh' as a 'silent high' - a release of air that feels good.

Collocations

  • deeply
  • heavily
  • softly
  • in
  • with

Synonyms

  • exhale
  • groan
  • lament
  • moan
  • breathe out

Antonyms

  • cheer
  • exclaim
  • shout

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'sighed' - using the wrong tense.
  • Omitting the subject when using sigh as a complete sentence.
  • Incorrectly using 'sigh' as a noun without context.